Rafa Cabrera Bello wins Scottish Open

Spain's Rafa Cabrera Bello birdied the first hole in a playoff with Englishman Callum Shinkwin to win the Scottish Open, and with it his first European Tour victory in over five and a half years. 

24–year–old Callum Shinkwin had a 4–footer par putt for outright victory on his 72nd hole, but left it short and the door open for Rafa Cabrera Bello, who did not need to be asked twice.

There was fire in Cabrera Bello’s belly today, as he shot a course record 8 under 64 to finish level with Shinkwin on 13 under.

On the first playoff hole Rafa rocketed his second shot 275 yards to with in 8 feet for an eagle putt. His putt was short, but left him with a tap in birdie.

Shinkwin needed a 7-foot birdie putt to force a second hole, but again he left it short, and victory was Rafa’s and his first victory since the Dubai Desert Classic in February 2012.

There is some consolation for Shinkwin in that he has all but secured his European Tour card for next season and earned a place at next week's Open.

Frenchman Matthieu Pavon, who finished third and Australian Andrew Dodt will also be joining him at Royal Birkdale.

Meanwhile Ian Poulter could only shoot a +2 74 to come T9.

But Padraig Harrington bounced back into contention with a -6 to finish T4. How he must rue his moving day 79, but he will be feeling good for his return to Birkdale.

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